Frank Joseph Croke

October 19, 1928 - August 1, 2011
Frank Joseph Croke


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Frank J. Croke, age 82, of Wilmington passed away at his residence on Monday, August 1, 2011.

Frank was born on October 19, 1928 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The son of the Late Mae McGrath amd Frank J. Croke Sr. He served his country faithfully in World War II as a Lieutenant in the Army and was a recent participant in an Honor Flight to Washington, DC. He started a lifelong love of sailing as a boy aboard the Gloucester Fishing Fleet, became First Mate of the three-masted schooner “Sea Gypsy.” He later raced as Navigator aboard “Wandelaar” and as owner of “Diana”.

An alumnus of Boys Central High School, Manhattan College (NY) and Harvard Business School. He retired after 25 years as an IBM executive. He was an Adjunct Professor of Business at Dowling College. He authored several books and articles on personal and business finance.

Surviving are his wife, Frances Babor Croke; sons Frank, William, Mathew Croke (Peggy); daughters Mary, Frances C. Page (Tad), Diana C. Jankoviak (David). Also surviving are his sister Joan Gannon and his loving nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his sister Helen C. Purnell

A funeral Mass will be held 10:00 AM, Friday August 5, 2011 at Saint Mary Catholic Church with a reception after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tileston Health Clinic, 1605 Doctors Circle Wilmington, NC 28401.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • August 03, 2011
    Frank and Jeanne Bua says:
    Dear Frances, The memorary I have of Frank was his positive attitude. When I was the chair for the dances in the Tileston gym, I could always count on Frank to be supportive and genuinally excited about the affairs. That meant a lot to me. My Frank and I will keep you and your family in our prayers. Love, Jeanne Bua

  • August 04, 2011
    John J. Gannon (nephew) says:
    My Uncle Frank was a very special man to me. I often admired the way he showed his love and interest in his wife and children. He always spoke of them with appreciation and honor. I also admired the way he loved and supported his sisters Joan (my mother)and Helen. Uncle Frank and Aunt Frances always seemed to be so sweet and kind to each other and I was impressed by their friendship and ability to "work together". Frank also knew the importance of "having fun". He was a "Class Act" and their chilren (my cousins) are examples of a beautiful and graceful way to live life. I honor you Uncle Frank! Thank You for being YOU! Love, John Gannon